Travel Tips: Surviving Long-Haul Flights

Obviously we’re big fans of far away places and all their delights. That said, getting to said places can be really hard on our bodies. Check out our tips for surviving, and dare we say enjoying, long-haul flights…

R U NOT ENTERTAINED?! In-flight entertainment in 2016 is pretty wonderful, but don’t rely on it to keep you occupied for over ten hours. Come prepared: download any movies, books, games, etc. the night before and charge all your devices. You may even want to bring battery backup.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Staying hydrated on any flight is vital, but especially for those over six hours. Fill an insulated bottle after security, and then don’t be afraid to ask (and ask, and ask) for more from the stewardesses. Don’t forget about your skin either! We love this hydration spray from Aesop, or the Jasmine Garden by May Lindstrom.

Stagger your booze + avoid salty foods. If you’re going to drink on a plane, try and wait until you’ve been aboard and hydrating for a couple of hours, or about to go sleep. Alcohol is a diuretic and will make your skin feel very tight, among other side effects. As great as comfort food is on a plane, all that salt will undo your hydrating.

Traveling internationally? Fill out customs forms first thing. Don’t be that guy filling out forms in line, slowing everyone else down. Take 5 minutes once the seat belt sign is off and collect all the customs forms you’ll need for your arrival, and spare yourself the stress and drama. And bring your own pencil.

Minimize your carry-ons. The more carry-ons you have, the less space you’ll have to stretch.

Ambien is your friend. If you don’t sleep easily on planes, procure a sleep aid before your trip – but do make sure to try it out at home first. Mood-altering medication, like most sleep aids, work differently in different altitudes so at least make sure the medicine you bring won’t upset you on the ground.

Isolation for the introvert. When I fly I like to have an eye mask, ear plugs AND noise canceling headphones. It’s my own way of creating the private space that has been sucked away from me.

What’re we missing? Tweet and tell us your best tricks for surviving long-haul flights!